Springtails

Collembola

Fact Sheet: English, Spanish.

Springtail

Adult springtail (Ryan Davis, Utah State University Extension)

Springtails

Springtails (Samuel Abbott, Utah State University)

Springtails

Springtails (Ryan Davis, Utah State University Extension)

Identification

  • very small: 3/16 inch
  • appear to jump or fling when disturbed
  • color ranges from black to gray to white
  • do not have wings
  • use a hand lens to identify

Nesting Habits

  • naturally very numerous in soil/turf
  • require moisture; prefer cool, moist conditions
  • can overcrowd in moist soils with high amounts of organic matter
  • frequently seen crawling around on concrete

Diet

  • decaying vegetation, fungi, bacteria, pollen, algae, lichens, arthropod feces, carrion

Significance

  • can migrate indoors in large numbers in late spring/early summer when soil starts to dry out, seeking moisture

IPM Recommendations

  • Inspect area under sinks and other moisture sources for springtails, because they seek moisture indoors.
  • Seal cracks and crevices where springtails may enter structures.
  • Reduce clutter and clean under sinks and around areas with a water source.
  • Thoroughly clean baseboards, cracks and crevices around problem areas.
  • Vacuum springtails that enter structures.

For more information, see our Springtails fact sheet.